Two leading candidates have ruled themselves out of the running to replace Scott Robertson as All Blacks coach.
Both outgoing Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt and Blues coach Vern Cotter have confirmed they are not available to take on the All Blacks coach role two years out from the World Cup.
Schmidt has reportedly informed NZ Rugby he will honour his commitment to Australian rugby through to the 2027 World Cup on home soil.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Schmidt, who will step down as Wallabies coach in July to hand over to Les Kiss, was sounded out following Robertson’s sacking on 15 January but has made it clear he will not switch allegiances mid-cycle.
Schmidt’s decision is influenced by family considerations, with the 60-year-old having previously spoken about the strain of working away from home while his son Luke, who has special needs, remains in New Zealand.
There is a quiet confidence in Australian rugby circles that Schmidt – after a family break – may well be involved with the Wallabies and Rugby Australia in some capacity next year in the build-up to the World Cup.
His loyalty to Australia has been welcomed by Wallabies players and officials, with senior prop Allan Alaalatoa praising the impact Schmidt has made during his two-year tenure.
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Despite being frequently linked with the All Blacks job, Cotter’s name has now also been removed from contention after confirmation he will take over as Queensland Reds coach at the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season.
The 63-year-old, who has also coached Scotland and Fiji and recently guided the Blues to a Super Rugby title, revealed discussions with the Reds were already well advanced before Robertson’s dismissal.
Compounding NZ Rugby’s challenge, Springbok attack coach Tony Brown has reiterated his commitment to South Africa through to the end of his contract in 2027, ruling out a return home in the short term.
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NZ Rugby has confirmed it will prioritise New Zealand-based coaches with proven international head coaching experience, citing the need for someone who can “hit the ground running” midway through a World Cup cycle.
That criteria significantly shortens the list, leaving figures such as Dave Rennie and Jamie Joseph among the few remaining viable options, while former All Blacks coaches Ian Foster and Steve Hansen also technically fit the brief.
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